Asia's Airlines Find Being First Comes With Risks

The Wall Street Journal ^ | January 17, 2013 | JEFFREY NG

[MinorityRepublican]

HONG KONG—Asia's premium airlines have over the past two decades signed on as high-profile launch customers for many new commercial jetliners, such as the Airbus A380 and Boeing Co. BA +1.24% 787, aiming to raise their global profile while renewing an aging fleet.

The key driver behind these moves was a push over the past two decades by the region's airlines to launch newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft amid a strengthening regional economy and a boom in demand for air travel across Asia.

But the latest problems facing the 787 Dreamliner—which Japan's two main carriers were the first to fly—highlight the risks these airlines face despite all the prestige and publicity associated with being among the plane's earliest users.

[AlexW]

It is interesting that all of the world’s five star airlines
are Asian.
No American carrier has more then four stars, and they are minor carriers.

[saywhatagain]

Because American carriers, like their European counterparts have a mostly inward viewpoint of who their customer base is. Here in Asia, they have a more global viewpoint of who their customers are. Emirates Airlines, Singapore, Cathay Pacific, etc.

AND . . . While some degree of unions are involved, they demand of their employees excellence and service. All multi language flight attendants.

and age and weight limitations!